If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and filled with wholesome goodness, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust. This beauty combines a satisfyingly crisp brown rice base with a velvety egg filling, bursts of sharp cheese, tender broccoli, and a whisper of tangy feta. It’s one of those rare savory pies that’s as suitable for a relaxed brunch as it is for a show-stopping vegetarian dinner. Whether you’re a longtime fan of tarts or newly curious about inventive grain-based crusts, this tasty creation is a delicious invitation to upgrade your usual weeknight fare.

Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust plays an important role, from bringing structure to delivering bold flavors. The beauty lies in how accessible and simple these ingredients are, yet the final tart looks (and tastes) absolutely impressive!

Cooked brown rice: This forms the hearty, slightly nutty base of the tart, providing both flavor and a gluten-free twist.
Sharp cheddar (grated): Adds that nostalgic gooey, cheesy richness and binds the crust beautifully.
Large egg: Acts as the glue that holds your rice crust together for easy slicing later.
Butter (for greasing): Prevents sticking and helps the crust bake up crisp and golden.
Red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a sweet pop of color and a gentle, earthy tang to the filling.
Extra virgin olive oil: Enhances the sautéed vegetables with fruity smoothness.
Head of broccoli (chopped): The green superstar of the tart! It becomes tender-crisp and vibrant in every bite.
Large eggs (for filling): Create the signature silky custard that makes each forkful decadent but light.
Milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture and helps everything set just right.
Salt and pepper: Don’t be shy! They bring out the best in every component.
Feta or goat’s cheese (crumbled): A sprinkle of this adds pockets of creamy tang and a little luxury.
Parmesan cheese (or other strong cheese): Grated over the top, it bakes into a savory golden topping.

How to Make Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you do anything, gather all your ingredients and have them measured out. Pre-cook your brown rice if you haven’t already, and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets and stems for uniformity. Having everything ready will make each step that much smoother!

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and give your tart pan a luxurious buttering (or a light brush of vegetable oil) to make sure nothing sticks. Aim for a 10-inch shallow tart pan with a removable bottom, but don’t stress if yours is a bit different—just adjust your baking time slightly if needed.

Step 3: Mix the Brown Rice Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, grated sharp cheddar, and an egg. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s evenly coated and the mixture sticks together when pressed. This is your glorious gluten-free base in the making!

Step 4: Form and Par-Bake the Crust

With clean, damp hands, press the rice mixture evenly across the bottom and up the sides of your prepared tart pan. Make sure it’s compact and even to keep things sturdy. Slip the crust into your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes—it should just start to set and turn slightly golden. Let the crust cool a bit while you work on the filling.

Step 5: Sauté Onions and Broccoli

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet, then add those thinly sliced red onions. Cook, stirring, until they’re soft and starting to caramelize. Now, toss in your broccoli florets and stir quickly, cooking just until they turn a cheery green and lose their crunchy rawness—about three to five minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Whisk the Custard

In a clean bowl, whisk together the remaining eggs and milk, seasoning again with a bit of salt and a good grind of black pepper. This mixture is what makes your tart creamy and dreamy once baked.

Step 7: Assemble the Tart

Spread your sautéed broccoli and onions evenly across the cooled rice crust. Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the vegetables for gentle tang. Pour the egg-milk mixture over the top, then give the pan a careful shake to settle everything. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan for maximum golden crunch.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop your assembled Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust back into the oven. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden, the cheese is bubbling, and the egg has set with just a wobble in the center. Let it cool for a few minutes before you slice—it makes lifting out neat wedges so much easier.

How to Serve Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust

Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust Recipe

Garnishes

The best part of serving Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust? Those finishing touches! A scatter of chopped fresh herbs—think chives, parsley, or even a little dill—adds lovely color and a pop of fresh flavor. A light dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving never hurt, either.

Side Dishes

This tart pairs effortlessly with a crisp green salad dressed simply, maybe with arugula and a lemony vinaigrette. For a heartier dinner, serve alongside roasted potatoes or a bowl of tangy tomato soup. The tart is also delicious with a drizzle of hot sauce, if that’s your style!

Creative Ways to Present

You can present slices artfully on a platter garnished with edible flowers for a brunch centerpiece, or cut the tart into smaller squares for a beautiful appetizer tray at your next gathering. Individual ramekins also make darling single-serve versions—everyone loves a tart of their own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust keeps its flavor and texture really well. Just transfer cooled slices to an airtight container and refrigerate—they’ll stay delicious for up to three days, making them perfect for easy lunches or speedy dinners.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, you can absolutely freeze this tart! Slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap (then foil), and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so it doesn’t get soggy.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the crust is crisp. Microwave works in a pinch, but the oven preserves that glorious rice crust the best.

FAQs

Can I make Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite plant-based cheeses and use a splash of any unsweetened, neutral dairy-free milk for the custard. The tart will still bake up rich and satisfying.

How do I make the tart crust extra crispy?

For an even crisper base, bake the rice crust a few minutes longer in step 4, and let it cool completely before adding the filling. A metal tart pan also helps conduct heat for a crisper edge!

Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?

Absolutely! Asparagus, sautéed spinach, or roasted mushrooms are all lovely alternatives or additions. Just make sure your vegetables are cooked until any extra moisture is gone to prevent a soggy tart.

How do I prevent the crust from sticking to the pan?

Generously grease your tart pan, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Lining the bottom with parchment can also help if your pan doesn’t have a removable base.

Can I make the Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble and bake the tart fully, then let it cool and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just gently reheat in the oven until warmed through and enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience how cozy, tasty, and downright satisfying this Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust truly is. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just meal-prepping for the week, every bite is full of cheerful flavors and wholesome comfort. Give it a try—you’ll have a new favorite in no time!

Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 29 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 1 tart (8 servings) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Broccoli Tart with Brown Rice Crust is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of broccoli with a hearty brown rice crust. The creamy cheeses and savory onions make this tart a perfect addition to any meal.

Instructions

Prepare: Preheat oven to 400°F / 200°C. Grease a tart pan with butter.
Mix: Combine cooked brown rice, egg, and cheddar. Press mixture into tart pan.
Bake: Bake crust for 15 minutes. Let cool.
Saute: In a skillet, cook onions in olive oil until soft. Add broccoli, cook until bright green. Season with salt and pepper.
Whisk: Whisk eggs and milk together, season with salt and pepper.
Arrange: Place broccoli and onions in the cooled crust, top with feta. Pour egg mixture over and sprinkle with Parmesan.
Bake: Bake for 20-30 minutes until set.
Cool: Let cool before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American